Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State broke down in tears on Tuesday as he visited the Zikke community in Bassa Local Government Area. This community had just suffered a deadly attack where over 50 people were killed.

In a video shared by Channels TV, the governor apologized to the people for the government’s failure to prevent the violence. The attack happened early Monday morning, with gunmen killing residents, burning homes, and forcing many people to flee. This tragedy came just two weeks after a similar attack in Bokkos Local Government Area where many were also killed.

Governor Mutfwang went to the community with security leaders and members of his team to comfort the victims’ families and see the damage for himself. He asked the people to stay alert and share any useful information with security agencies to help stop future attacks.

“I will tell you the truth: I myself, I have been crying since yesterday because I had trusted God that all the arrangements we had been put in place, that this would not happen again.

“We have made investments in security,” Governor Mutfwang said during a visit to the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Miango.

“But like all human arrangements, sometimes they fail. I want to admit that on Sunday night into Monday morning, we failed you. Please, forgive me.”

The traditional ruler of Irigwe land, His Royal Highness Ronku Aka (Brangwe of Irigwe), urged the government to send help quickly and restore basic services in affected communities.

The governor also visited families who had just buried their loved ones. People in the community were emotional and angry, demanding quick and strong action to stop what they called ongoing “genocidal” violence.

President Bola Tinubu also spoke out, calling the attack “heinous.” He ordered security forces to catch and punish those responsible.

Although past Plateau violence has often been blamed on land and resource disputes between farmers and herders, Governor Mutfwang said this situation looks more serious. He believes the violence is planned and targeted. He said over 64 communities in the state have been taken over by armed groups.

Plateau State has faced years of violence, but these new attacks have made people worry even more about safety. Many are now questioning whether the government can truly bring peace to the region.